Lexapro (Escitalopram): Uses, Side Effects, Precaution

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro (Escitalopram) is an antidepressant medication and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

How does Lexapro work?

Lexapro works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood, sleep, and appetite. By increasing the levels of serotonin, Lexapro can help to improve mood, relieve anxiety, and reduce compulsions and obsessions.

What are the uses of Lexapro?

Lexapro is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

What are the side effects of Lexapro?

The most common side effects of Lexapro include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia
• Somnolence
• Sexual dysfunction
• Weight gain

What are the precautions for taking Lexapro?

Lexapro should be used with caution in patients with a history of:

• Bipolar disorder
• Seizures
• Liver or kidney disease
• Glaucoma
• Heart problems
• Bleeding disorders
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

Who should not take Lexapro?

Lexapro should not be taken by people who are allergic to escitalopram or any of the ingredients in Lexapro. It should also not be taken by people who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (such as phenelzine or tranylcypromine), or who have recently taken linezolid or methylene blue.

What are the drug interactions with Lexapro?

Lexapro can interact with a number of other medications, including:

• Blood thinners
• Anticonvulsants
• Antipsychotics
• Lithium
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Triptans

It is important to talk to your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting Lexapro.

What is the Lexapro overdose?

Symptoms of a Lexapro overdose may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Coma
• Death

If you think someone has overdosed on Lexapro, call 911 immediately.